27 Little Known Signs of Emotional Abuse

“The scars from mental cruelty can be as deep and long-lasting as wounds from punches or slaps but are often not as obvious. In fact, even among women who have experienced violence from a partner, half or more report that the man’s emotional abuse is what is causing them the greatest harm,” explained Lundy Bancroft.

Unfortunately, most victims of emotional abuse don’t see it for what it is until they are in far too deep to get out easily.

Here are 27 warning signs that need to be taken seriously:

1. When your partner is unhappy, you are always to blame.

2. They become angry if you do not answer phone calls, text messages, or emails right away.

3. They share your secrets, private moments, fears, insecurities, or even sexual experiences with others. Nothing is safe or off-limits.

4. They make your accomplishments feel small and unimportant. If you have a career, they likely treat it as a hobby.

5. They claim to always know what is best for you, and pressure you into allowing them to make choices that should be yours.

6. Your partner often accuses you of things that you did not do.

7. They make “suggestions” that you have no choice but to take. You are afraid of what will happen if you don’t.

8. Your partner often insinuates that they are somehow above you. They try to make you feel as if you are lucky to have landed them, and don’t truly deserve to be their significant other.

9. They demand to be included in all of your plans.

10. They become angry when you tease them, even in private and in a loving way.

11. They always win arguments. You always lose. There is no compromise or give-and-take.